Sabbath - School
Lesson Quarterly
[Entered as second-class matter, October 13, 1904, at the Post-office in
Mountain View, Cal., under the Act of Congress of
March 3, 18791
No. 64
Mountain View, Cal., April, 1911
Five Cents
Lessons on
The Book of Acts
For Senior Division
Second Quarter 1911
April to June
Published by
Pacific Press Publishing Association
Mountain View, California
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A Twenty-Page Monthly Journal
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and general exercises, with helps .
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Sabbath-School Lessons on the
BOOK OF ACTS
LESSON I.— The Gospel Sent to Ethiopia
APRIL 1, 1911
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
Acts 8: 26-40.
LESSON HELP: The
Sabbath School Worker.
PLACES: Road from Jerusalem to Gaza; Azotus; Csarea.
PERSONS: Philip; a man of Ethiopia.
Questions
1.
Where was Philip commanded to go ? Acts 8 : 26.
Note 1.
2.
Whom did he find traveling the desert road?
What was the Ethiopian doing? Verses 27, 28. Note 2.
3.
What second command was given to Philip ?
Verse 29.
4.
How quickly did he obey? How did he intro-
duce himself to the eunuch? Verse 30.
5.
What reply did the eunuch make? What request
did he make of Philip ? Verse 31.
4:3
6.
What scripture was the eunuch reading? Verses
32, 33;
7.
-
What questions did he ask Philip regarding this
scripture ? Verse 34.
8.
What was the subject of Philip's sermon, and
what scripture did he take for his text? Verse 35.
Note 3.
9.
While listening to Philip, what duty was made
4
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
plain to the eunuch? What request did he make?
Verse 36.
10.
What was Philip's reply? What confession did
the eunuch make? Verse 37.
11.
Describe the baptismal service. Verse 38.
12.
Of what is baptism a memorial? Of what is it
a pledge? Rom. 6: 3-5.
13.
What- occurred after the baptism? In what spirit
did the eunuch go on his way ? Acts 8: 39.
14.
Where did Philip continue his work? Verse 40.
Note 4:
Notes
12 Gaza, earlier called Azzah, was the most southern city in
Palestine, about fifty miles southwest of Jerusalem, on the shore
route between Palestine and Egypt. It was a very ancient city.
Throughout Bible times it was generally held by the Philistines.
See Judges 16: 21-30.
"The epithet 'desert' as applied to the region between Jeru-
salem and Gaza, did not necessarily mean that it was all sand
and bare rock. Sections might be spitable for olive-trees and grain
crops, but there were no large springs or brooks for irrigation
and the nourishment of flocks and herds, and therefore there
could be few or no villages in which the evangelist could preach.
It seemed an unreasonable command, and one that involved a waste
of time, but 'he arose and went.' "
2.
The name "Ethiopia" (Hebrew,
Kush,
country of burnt
faces) is doubtless here used to refer to a kingdom south of Egypt,
including part of modern Nubia and the Egyptian Sudan. It
was governed by queens, whose dynastic name was Candace. The
inhabitants were dark-skinned, but were probably not Negroes.
The eunuch was no doubt a tivelp .fhe region.
3.
A careful study of
.
i.eveals the secret of suc-
cessful missionary work. Notwithstanding the-fact that the Lord
sent Philip into a desert to wait by the roadside, he obeyed at
once. If he had delayed one day, or even a few hours, he would
have missed meeting the Ethiopian. When Philip saw the chariot,
again the Spirit said; "Go." If Philip had delayed, the chariot
would soon have passed; but he ran, and thus joined the chariot.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
5
Philip met the man where he was. He did not introduce a new
subject, but was familiar enough with the Scriptures to preach
the full gospel message, including baptism, from the verses the
eunuch was reading.
4. Azotus, the ancient Ashdod, was about fifteen miles north of
Gaza, and near the coast. It was the seat of the worship of
Dagon. See 1 Sam. 5: 1-9. Cnsarea, on the coast, was about
seventy miles northwest of Jerusalem, and about the same dis-
tance north of Azotus. Unlike Gaza and Azotus, it was then a
modern city, built by Herod the Great about twenty-two years
before the birth of Christ.
LESSON II.—Saul of Tai-sus Converted
APRIL 8, 1911
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Acts 9: 1-22.
LESSON HELPS: "Testimonies for the Church," volume 3,
pages 429-432; the
Sabbath School Worker.
PLACES: Jerusalem; Damascus, the most ancient city still
existing, a hundred and thirty-three miles northeast of Jerusalem.
PERSONS: Saul and the men journeying with him; Ananias,
disciples, and Jews.
Questions
1.
In connection with what events is Saul first spoken
of in the book of Acts? Acts 7 : 58 ; 8: 1, 3. In what
way did Saul continue his persecutions? Acts 9 : 1.
2.
To whom did he go, and for what reason? What
was the object of his journey to Damascus? Verses 1, 2.
3.
What occurred as he neared Damascus? How
bright was this light ? Verse 3; Acts 26 : 13. Note 1.
4.
How was Saul affected by what he saw ? What
did he hear ? Acts 9 : 4.
5.
What reply did he make ? What did-the Lord
say ? Verse 5. Note 2.
6
8A8BATH-SCIEWOL LESSON QUARTERLY
6.
When Saul found out that Jesus was the Lord,
how was he affected? By what question did he show
immediate and full faith in Jesus? Verse 6. Note 3.
7.
Why did the Lord stop Saul in his work while
other persecutors went on unchecked? 1 Tim. 1: 13.
8.
What did the Lord tell Saul to do? Acts 9 : 6.
Note 4.
9.
Could Saul's companions understand the con-
versation between Jesus and Saul? Verse 7; Acts 22: 9.
Note 5.
10.
What was Sanl's condition when he stood upon
his feet? Acts 9: 8. Note 6.
11.
What had caused the blindness? Acts 22: 11.
12.
How long did Saul remain in this condition?
Acts 9 : 9.
13.
To whom did the Lord appear in a vision?
Verse 10.
14.
What instruction was given Ananias? Why was
he sent to Saul? Verse 11.
15.
How had the Lord prepared Saul for Ananias's
visit? Verse 12.
16.
What reason did Ananias give for not wanting to
visit Saul? Verses 13, 14.
17.
What reasons did the Lord give why Ananias
should visit Saul? Verses 15, 16.
18.
How did Ananias address Saul when he met him?
By what remark did he show that he knew of Saul's
recent experience? For what two reasons had Jesus
sent Ananias to Saul? Verse 17.
19.
How was the vision of the twelfth verse fulfilled?
Verse 18.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
7
20.
What did Ananias say the Lord had revealed to
him in regard to Saul's future work ? Acts 22 : 13-16.
21.
How did Saul show his faith in the death and
resurrection of Christ? Acts 9 : 18, last clause.
22.
Where did Saul remain for a time ? What work
did he immediately commence? Verses 19, 20.
23.
What was said by those who heard him? Verse 21.
24.
What is said of Saul's work in Damascus?
Verse 22.
Notes
1.
"Saul's 'threatening and slaughter' came from inside; the
bright light of heaven came from outside. The inner light of a
man is not worth much as a guide to duty; it is light from out-
side that every man needs. Saul was following conscience when
he started on a life and death hunt for Damascus Christians. If
his conscience had not been enlightened from heaven, Saul would
have kept on the threatening and slaughter track to the end of
his life. We need light from heaven to show us our duty toward
our fellows, and also the safe road toward heaven."—
Sunday
School Times, 1909.
2.
"To kick against the pricks."— A figure of speech derived
from the custom of driving oxen with a goad. If the ox re-
sisted and kicked against it, he wounded himself severely. Thus
Jesus shows Saul how useless and how injurious to himself is his
fighting against God.
-
3. The conversion of Saul is narrated three times in the book
of Acts. Paul relates it himself in chapters 22: 3-16; 26: 9-18;
and it is alluded to several times in his epistles.
4. "Many have the idea that they are responsible to Christ
alone for their light and experience, independent of His acknowl-
edged followers in the world. But this is condemned by Jesus
in His teachings, and in the examples, the facts, which He has
given for our instruction. Here was Paul, one whom Christ was
to fit for a most important work, one who was to be a chosen
vessel unto Him, brought directly into the presence of Christ;
yet He does not teach him the lessons of truth. He arrests his
course and convicts him; and when he asks, 'What wilt Thou
have me to dol' the Saviour does not tell him directly, but places
him in connection with His church. They will tell thee what thou
mitst do. Jesus is the sinner's friend
?
His heart is ever open,
8
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
ever touched with human wo; He has all power, both in heaven
and upon earth; but He respects the means which He has or-
dained for the enlightenment and salvation of men. He directs
Saul to the church, thus acknowledging the power that He has
invested in it as a channel of light to the world. It is Christ's
organized body upon the earth, and respect is required to be paid
to His ordinances."—"Testimonies
for the Church," volume 3,
page 433;
- 5. "As the weary travelers neared Damascus, the eyes of Saul
rested with pleasure upon the fertile land, the beautiful gardens,
the fruitful orchards, and the cool streams that ran murmuring
amid the fresh green shrubbery. It was very refreshing to look
upon such a scene after a long, wearisome journey over a desolate
waste. While Saul, with his companions, was gazing and admiring,
suddenly a light above the brightness of the sun shone round about
him, 'and he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto
him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou Mel And he said, Who
art Thou, Lord' And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou per-
secutest; it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.'
"The scene was one of the greatest confusion. The com-
panions of Saul were stricken with terror, and almost blinded by
the intensity of the light. They heard the voice, but saw no one,
and to them all was unintelligible and mysterious. But Saul,
lying proStrate upon the ground, understood the words that were
spoken, and saw clearly before him the Son of God. One look
upon that glorious Being, imprinted His image forever upon
the soul of the stricken Jew. The words struck home to his heart
with appalling force. A flood of light poured in upon the dark-
ened chambers of his mind, revealing his ignorance and error.
He saw that while imagining himself to be zealously serving god
in persecuting the followers of Christ, he had in reality been
doing the work of Satan."—"
Sketches from the Life of Paul,"
page 22.
6. "How different from what he [Saul] had anticipated was
his entrance into that city! In proud satisfaction he had neared
Damascus, expecting on his arrival to be greeted with ostentation
and applause because of the honor conferred upon him by the
high priest, and the great zeal and penetration he had manifested
in searching out the believers to carry them as captives to Jeru-
salem, there to be condemned, and punished without mercy. He
had determined
.
that his journey should be crowned with success;
and his courageous and persevering spirit quailed at no diffi-
culties or dangers in the pursuance of his object. He had deter-
mined that no Christian should escape his vigilance; he would
inquire of men, women, and children concerning their faith, and
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
9
that of those with whom they were connected; he would enter
houses, with power to seize their inmates, and to send them as
prisoners to Jerusalem.
"But how changed was the scene from that which he had an-
ticipated! Instead of wielding power and receiving honor, he
was himself virtually a prisoner, being deprived of sight, and
dependent upon the guidance of his companions. Helpless, and
tortured by remorse, he felt himself to be under sentence of death,
and knew not what further disposition the Lord would make
of him.
"He was taken to the house of the disciple Judas, and there
he remained, in solitude, studying upon the strange revelation
that had broken up all his plans, and changed the entire current
of his
life."--"Sketches from the Life of Paul," pages 25, 26.
LESSON
Ministry of Paul and Pete•
APRIL 15, 1911
LESSON SCRIPTURE
: Acts 9: 23-43.
LESSON HELP: The
Sabbath School Worker.
PLACES: Damascus, Jerusalem, Ciesarea, Tarsus, Lydda, Joppa,
and the chief divisions of Palestine.
PERSONS: Saul, Barnabas, disciples, Peter, 11•;neas, Dorcas,
messengers, Simon.
Questions
ii. What did the Jews of Damascus decide to do?
Where had Paul found refuge in the meantime? Acts
9:
23. Note 1.
2.
How did they seek to accomplish their evil design?
Verse 24.
3.
How was Saul delivered out of their hands?
Verse 25.
4.
With whom did Saul seek to unite in Jerusalem?
Why did they reject him? Verse 26.
10
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLT
5.
How did Barnabas break down the barrier between
Saul and the apostles? Verse 27. Note 2.
6.
What is said of Saul's work in Jerusalem ? Who
attempted to slay him? Verses 28, 29.
7.
How was he delivered? Verse 30.
8.
What was the experience of the churches at this
time ? Verse 31.
9.
Who was doing general work among all the
churches ? What place is mentioned as being visited ?
Verse 32. Note 3.
10.
In what condition did Peter find IEneas? Verse 33.
11.
What did Peter say to him? With what result?
Verse 34.
12.
What was accomplished by this miracle? Verse 35.
13.
What woman disciple lived at Joppa ? What is
said of her character? Verse 36.
14.
What befell Dorcas? Verse 37.
15.
Who were sent to Lydda, and with what message ?
Verse 38.
16.
How did Peter respond to the call? What scene
greeted him at the home of Dorcas ? Verse 39.
17.
What did Peter do ? Verse 40.
18.
What did Peter say to the dead body ? What fol-
lowed Verses 40, 41.
19.
What was the result of this mighty miracle ?
Verse 42.
20.
Who remained to follow up the interest created
by this miracle ? With whom did he stay ? Verse 43.
Notes
1. "After that many days were fulfilled."- This period of
"many days" evidently covers
the
time Saul spent
in
Arabia,
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
11
'
shortly after his conversion, before he went to Jerusalem. See
Gal. 1: 17, 18.
"Paul's life was in peril, and he received a commission from
God to leave Damascus for a time. He went into Arabia; and
there, in comparative solitude, he had ample opportunity for
communion with God, and for contemplation. He wished to be
alone with God, to search his own heart, to deepen his repentance,
and to prepare himself by prayer and study to engage in a work
which appeared to him too great and too important for him to
undertake. He was an apostle, not chosen of men, but chosen
of God, and his work was plainly stated to be among the Gentiles.
"While in Arabia he did not communicate, with the apostles;
he sought God earnestly with all his heart, determining not to
rest till he knew for a certainty that his repentance was accepted,
and his great sin pardoned. He would not give up the conflict
until he had the assurance .that Jesus would be with him in his
coming ministry. He was ever to carry about with him in the
body the marks of Christ's glory, in his eyes, which had been
blinded by the heavenly light, and he desired also to bear with
him constantly the assurance of Christ's sustaining grace. Paul
came in close connection with heaven, and Jesus communed with
him, and established him in his faith, bestowing upon him His
wisdom and grace.
"Paul now returned to Damascus, and preached boldly in the
name of Jesus. The Jews could not withstand the wisdom of
his arguments, and they therefore counseled together to silence
his voice by force — the only argument left to a sinking cause.
They decided to assassinate him. The apostle was made acquainted
with their purpose. The gates of the city were vigilantly guarded,
day and night, to cut off his escape. The anxiety of the disciples
drew them to God in prayer; there was little sleeping among
them, as they were busy in devising ways and means for the
escape of the chosen apostle. Finally they conceived a plan by
which he was let down from a window, and lowered over the wall
in a basket at night. In this humiliating manner Paul made his
escape from
Damascus."—"Sketches
from the Life of Paul,"
pages 33, 34.
2. "He [Paul] now proceeded to Jerusalem, wishing to be-
come acquainted with the apostles there, and especially with Peter.
He was very anxious to meet the Galilean fishermen who had lived,
and prayed, and conversed with Christ upon earth. It was with
a yearning heart that he desired to meet the chief of apostles. . . .
He attempted to join himself to his brethren, the disciples; but
great was his grief and disappointment when he found that they
would not receive him as one of their number. . .
Barnabas,
12
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
who had liberally contributed of his means to sustain the cause
of Christ, and to relieve the necessities of the poor, had been
acquainted with Paul when he opposed the believers. He now
came forward and renewed that acquaintance, heard the testimony
of Paul in regard to his miraculous conversion, and his experience
from that time. He fully believed and received Paul, took him
by the hand, and led him into the presence of the apostles. . . .
"The apostles no longer hesitated; they could not withstand
God. Peter and James, who at that time were the only apostles in
Jerusalem, gave the right hand of fellowship to the once fierce
persecutor of their faith; and he was now as much beloved and
respected as be had formerly been feared and avoided. Here the
two grand characters of the new faith met — Peter, one of the
chosen companions of Christ while He was upon earth, and Paul, a
Pharisee, who,
since the ascension of Jesus, had met Him face
to face, and had talked with Him, and had also seen Him, in
vision, and the nature of His work in
heaven."—"Sketches from
the Life of Paul," pages 35, 36.
It seems from Gal. 1: 18, 19 that Paul only remained in Jeru-
salem fifteen days at this time.
3.
"Lydda,
in the Old Testament Lud, a small town in the
fertile plain of Sharon (verse 35) which was situated between the
mountains and seacoast of northern Judea, now called Lucid, and
the first principal station on the railway from Jaffa [Joppa]
to Jerusalem."—Riddle.
LESSON IV.—The Vision of Peter
APRIL 22, 1911
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
Acts 10: 1-23.
LESSON HELP: The
Sabbath School Worker.
PERSONS AND PLACES: Cornelius and his household in Cmsarea;
Peter at the home of Simon in Joppa; messengers, and certain
brethren.
Questions
1.
What Roman officer dwelt at Csarea? What
position did he hold? Acts 10: 1. Note 1.
2.
What was the character of Cornelius? Verse 2.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
13
3.
Who appeared to him one afternoon? Verse 3.
4.
How was he affected? What did he say? What
comforting assurance was given him in reply? Verse 4.
5.
What did the angel tell. Cornelius to do ? What
five facts did the angel mention in regard to Peter and
his whereabouts? Verses 5, 6.
6.
Who were called, and upon what errand were they
sent? Verses 7, 8.
7.
About noon the following day, as they drew near
Joppa, what was Peter doing? Verse 9.
8.
While Peter was waiting for food, what experi-
ence did he have? Verse 10. Note 2.
9.
Relate the vision. Verses 11-15. Note 3.
10.
How many times was it repeated? Verse 16.
11.
What was the significance of the vision's being
repeated? Gen. 41: 32.
12.
Did Peter understand the vision ? Acts 10 : 17.
Note
4.
13.
Who then stood at the gate? Verses 17, 18.
14.
What word did Peter receive? What did the
Spirit bid him do? Verses 19, 20.
15.
How did Peter introduce himself to the men from
Ccesarea? Verse 21.
16.
How did they present their request from Corne-
lius? Verse 22.
17.
How did Peter show a Christian spirit toward the
Gentile messengers? Who went with him to Cwsarea?
Verse 23.
14
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
Notes
1.
The "band" means a Roman cohort. The Roman army
was divided into legions, each legion into ten cohorts, each cohort
into three maniples, and each maniple into two centuries. A
centurion was the officer in command of a century, which consisted
of a hundred men. Originally the members were recruited in
Italy.
2.
The visions given to Cornelius and Peter, like those given
to Saul and Ananias, found recorded in Acts 9, show very clearly
how God plans and directs events so as to instruct and • save
those who love truth and righteousness, and sincerely desire a
knowledge of God.
3.
The Jew considered the touch of the Greek as defiling, "his
food was an abomination to the devout Israelite, and his religion
blasphemy." Peter "knew that the Gentile was to be saved.
The Old Testament declared it on every page. The Lord Jesus
confirmed it. But how should it be accomplished? It was ac-
complished. The prejudices and the convictions of the ages gave
way. . . . And he who knows what human nature is must admit
that no earthly power could have solved the problem in a single
generation. Only God could."—
Abbreviated from J. M. Stigler,
"The Acts."
4.
It was hard for Peter, with all his Jewish prejudices, to
understand the vision. God was preparing his mind for the
messengers who were on the road from Cnsarea. If Peter had
fully accepted this call from God to labor among the Gentiles,
his life-work might have equaled Paul's. The vision was not given
to sanction the eating of flesh of unclean animals, but to teach
Peter that he "should not call any man common or unclean,"—
that the Gentiles were as precious in God's sight as the Jews.
Acts 10: 28.
LESSON V.— The Gospel to the Gentiles
APRIL
29, 1911
LESSON SCRIPTURE
:
Acts 10: 24-43.
LESSON HELP: The
Sabbath School Worker.
PERSONS: Cornelius, his household, friends, and relatives; Peter
and those who came with him.
PLACE: The home of Cornelius.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
15
Questions
1.
Who were gathered together to welcome the breth-
ren from Joppa ? Acts 10: 24. Note 1.
2.
How did Cornelius receive Peter ? Verse 25.
Note 2.
3.
Why would Peter not receive such homage ?
Verse 26.
4.
Cite an example of an angel refusing the worship
of men. Rev. 22: 8, 9.
5.
With what remarks did Peter introduce himself
to the company in the home of Cornelius ? Acts 10 :
28, 29.
6.
What question did he ask Cornelius? Verse 29.
7.
In reply, what experience did Cornelius relate?.
Verse 30.
8.
What two things had moved Heaven in behalf of
Cornelius? Will the same things prevail in behalf of
man to-day? Verse 31.
9.
By whose authority did Cornelius say he had sent
for Peter? Verses 30-32.
10.
Whom did he recognize in it all, and from whom
did he expect to receive instruction? Verse 33. Note 3.
11.
As Peter. listened to Cornelius relate the vision,
with what truth was he forcibly impressed? Verse 34.
Note 4.
12.
Was this a truth of recent revelation ? Gen. 18 : 18.
13.
Who did Peter say was accepted of God? Acts
10 : 35.
14.
With what words did Peter begin his discourse?
Verses 36, 37.
16
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERL1
15.
How was Jesus enabled to do His great work?
Verse 38.
16.
Of what were the disciples witnesses? How did
Peter speak of Christ's death? Verse 39.
17.
What did he say of the resurrection? Verse 40.
18.
What did Peter say of Christ's appearance pub-
licly after His resurrection? Who chose the disciples
as witnesses? What conclusive evidence did they have?
Verse 41.
19.
By whom
was
Peter commissioned to preach?
What important fact was he commanded to preach ?
Verse 42.
20.
What wonderful truth is proclaimed by all the
prophets? Verse 43.
Notes
1.
"It was nearly two days before the journey was ended and
Cornelius had the glad privilege of opening his doors to a gospel
minister, who according to the assurance of God, should teach
him and his house how they might be saved. While the messengers
were upon their errand, the centurion had gathered together as
many of his relatives as were accessible, that they, as well as he,
might be instructed in the truth. When Peter arrived, a large
company were gathered, eagerly waiting to listen to his words."
—"Spirit of Prophecy," volume 3, page 329.
2.
"As Peter entered the house of the Gentile, Cornelius did
not salute him as an ordinary visitor, but as one honored of
Heaven, and sent to him by God. It is an Eastern custom to
bow before a prince or other high dignitary, and for children
to bow before their parents who are honored with positions of
trust. But Cornelius, overwhelmed with reverence for the apostle
who had been delegated by God, fell at his feet and worshiped
him. Peter shrank with horror from this
-
act of the centurion,
and lifted him to his feet, saying, 'Stand up; I myself also am
a man.' He then commenced to converse with him familiarly,
in order to remove the sense of awe and extreme reverence with
which the centurion regarded
him."—"Spirit of Prophecy," vol-
ume 3, pages 329, 330.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
17
3.
" This chapter [Acts 10] has much precious counsel in it
for us, and we should study it with humble attention. When the
Lord has His appointed agencies whereby He gives help to souls,
and men disrespect these agencies, and refuse to receive help
from them, and decide that they will be directly taught of God,
the Lord does not gratify their desire. The man who takes such
a position is in danger of taking up with the voices of strangers,
and of being led into false paths. Both Cornelius and Peter were
instructed what they were to do, and they obeyed the angel's word.
Cornelius gathered his household together to hear the message of
light from Peter. If he had said, I will not be taught of any
man, the angel would have left him to himself."—Mrs.
E. G.
White, in "Review and Herald," No. 40, 1893.
4.
The disciples of Christ must not be respecters of persons.
Neither nationality, nor social rank, nor poverty, nor riches must
influence our interest in the salvation of souls. "If ye have
respect of persons,.ye commit sin." James 2: 9.
LESSON
The Spirit Poured Out upon the Gen-
tiles; Peter Rehearses His Experiences
MAY 6, 1911
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
Acts 10: 44 to 11: 18.
PLACES: The Home of Cornelius, and Jerusalem.
PERSONS': Same as last lesson, and the apostles and brethren
in Judea.
Questions
1.
What occurred while Peter was yet speaking to
Cornelius and those with him? Acts 10 : 44. Note 1.
2.
Who were greatly astonished at this? Why were
they astonished? Verse 45.
3.
What evidence did they have that the Holy Spirit
was really poured out upon the Gentiles? Verse 46.
4.
What question did Peter ask the company? Verse
47. Note 2.
18
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
5.
What command did he give? What did they ask
Peter to do? Verse 48.
6.
What message was carried to the brethren in
Judea? Acts 11: 1.
7.
How did they show their displeasure when Peter
visited them? Verse 2.
8.
What accusation did they bring against him?
Verse 3.
9.
How did he answer them? Verse 4.
10.
Relate Peter's vision. Verses 5-10.
11.
For what did the vision prepare him? Verse 11.
12.
Who directed Peter to go with the men from
Coesarea? How many of the brethren from Joppa ac-
companied him? Verse 12.
13.
Who had directed Cornelius to send men for
Peter ? Verse 13. Note 3.
14.
What did the angel say of the words Peter would
speak? Verse 14.
15.
In what manner did the Holy Spirit fall upon the
Gentiles in the home of Cornelius? Verse 15.
16.
What words of Christ were brought to mind by
the descent of the Holy Ghost upon the Gentiles?
Verse 16.
17.
How did Peter conclude his remarks? Verse 17.
18.
What effect did the rehearsal of his experience
have upon the brethren at Jerusalem? To what con-
clusion did they come in regard to God's dealings with
the Gentiles? Verse 18.
Notes
1. ''Peter preached Jesus to that company of attentive hear-
ers; His life, ministry, miracles, betrayal, crucifixion, resurrection,
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
19
and ascension, and His work in heaven, as man's Representative
and Advocate, to plead in the sinner's behalf. As the apostle
spoke, his heart glowed with the Spirit of God's truth which he
was presenting to the people. His hearers were charmed by the
doctrine they heard, for their hearts had been prepared to re-
ceive the truth. The apostle was interrupted
,
by the descent of
the Holy Ghost, as was manifested on the day of Pentecost."—
"Spirit of Prophecy," volume 3, pages 331, 832.
2. Peter's sermon: •
The Gospel of Christ
1.
Jesus Christ, its Author and
basis. Acts 10: 36.
2.
Anointed with power.
Verse 38.
3.
His death. Verse 39.
.
4.
His resurrection. Verse 40.
5.
His judgment. Verse 42.
The Gospel for AU Men
1.
It is no respecter of persons.
Verses 34, 35.
2.
It makes character the test.
Verse 35.
3.
It offers salvation through
faith. Verse 43.
4.
It bestows the Holy Spirit.
Verses 44-46.
5.
That Spirit baptizes into one
body. Verses 47, 48.
3. Peter and Cornelius worked out in the Lord's way a dif-
ficult problem. By the same process we must solve the latter-day
problems. They were men of prayer. They did their immediate
duty without concern for what lay farther ahead. They did what
the Lord asked them to do
now,
without inquiry as to what He
would ask of them another day or another year. If we are not
doing His will at this moment, we shall never be sure of knowing
His will later.
LESSON VII.— The Gospel at Antioch; a New Center
Open for Missionary Work
MAY 13, 1911
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
Acts 11: 19-30.
LESSON
HELP: The
Sabbath School Worker.
PLACES: Antioch, Phenicia, Cyprus, Cyrene, Tarsus.
PEssoNs: Scattered Christians, Grecians, Barnabas, Saul,
Agabus, Claudius Caesar.
Questions
1.
What had caused a scattering among the breth-
20
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
ren ? How far had they traveled? To what class did
they confine their missionary labors ? Acts 11: 19.
Note 1.
2.
Who were the first to change this plan of work ?
With whom did they bdgin to labor ? Verse 20.
3.
In what way did God show His approval of their
efforts to carry the gospel to the Grecians ? Verse 21.
4.
When the brethren at Jerusalem heard of the
work at Antioch, who was sent to that place? Verse 22.
5.
After Barnabas had fully investigated the matter,
how did he feel? What did he exhort them to do ?
Verse 23.
6.
What is said of the character of Barnabas ? What
was the result of his work at Antioch? Verse 24.
7.
Win
,
did Barnabas go to Tarsus? Verse 25.
Note 2.
8.
Where did Barnabas bring Saul ? How long did
they labor together in Antioch? What name was given
the disciples in that place ? Verse 26. Note 3.
9.
Who visited Antioch at this time? Verse 27.
10.
What was the name of one of these prophets ?
What prophecy did he utter? When was his prophecy
fulfilled? Verse 28.
11.
How were the brethren in Judea sustained during
the great dearth? Verse 29.
12.
Who carried their liberality to Jerusalem? Verse
30. Note 4.
Notes
1. Phenicia (Phenice) lay between Galilee and Syria. Cyprus
.was the nearest large island in the Mediterranean. Cyrene was
in Africa. Antioch, the capital of Syria, was situated on the river
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
21
Orontes, about sixteen miles from the sea. Tarsus, Saul's native
city, was the chief city of Cilicia.
2.
It is quite probable that the work among the Gentiles at
Cnsarea and the Grecians at Antioch reminded Barnabas of what
the Lord had declared concerning Saul, "He is a chosen vessel
unto Me, to bear My name before the Gentiles." When Barnabas
saw that God was working for the Gentiles, he thought the time
had come when Saul should enter upon the work God had called
him to do; so he went in search of him.
3.
"It was here that the disciples were first called Christians.
This name was given them because Christ was the main theme
of their preaching, teaching, and conversation. They were con-
tinually recounting the incidents of His life, during the time
in which His disciples were blessed with His personal company.
They dwelt untiringly upon His teachings, His miracles of healing
the sick, casting out devils, and raising the dead to life. With
quivering lips and tearful eyes they spoke of His agony in the
garden, His betrayal, trial, and execution, the forbearance and
humility with which He endured the contumely and torture im-
posed upon Him by His enemies, and the Godlike pity with which
He prayed for those who persecuted Him. His resurrection and
ascension, and His work in heaven as a Mediator for fallen man,
were joyful topics with them. The heathen might well call them
Christians, since they preached of Christ, and addressed their
prayers to God through
Him."—"Sketches from the Life of
Paul," pages 40,
41.
4.
A list of the prominent characteristics of the church at
Antioch is impressive:
1.
A church born of persecution. Verse 19.
2.
A church of different nationalities. Verses 19, 20.
3.
A church of able leadership. Verses 22-26.
4.
A church of growing influence. Verses 21, 26.
5.
A church of generous givers. Verses 27-30.
LESSON VIII.— Death of James; Peter Delivered from
Prison; Death of Herod
MAY 20, 1911
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Acts 12:1-25.
LESSON HELPS: "Testimonies for the Church," volume 5,
pages 748, 749; the
Sabbath School Worker.
22
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
PLACES: A prison in Jerusalem, and the house of Mary the
mother of Mark.
PERSONS: Herod, James, John, Peter, believers, Mary the
mother of Mark, a damsel named Rhoda, soldiers, Barnabas, Saul,
John Mark.
Questions
1.
What did Herod now begin to do ? Acts 12 : 1.
Note 1.
2.
What faithful disciple did he put to death?
Verse 2.
3.
What led Herod to continue in this evil work?
What other disciple was arrested? Verse 3.
4.
What precautions were taken to prevent Peter's
escape? What was Herod's design concerning him?
Verse 4. Note 2.
5.
What did the church do in his behalf ? Verse 5.
6.
The night before Peter was to be slain, how se-
curely was he bound? How did he manifest perfect
trust in God? Verse 6.
7.
Who appeared in the prison that night? When
the angel smote Peter and spoke to him, what occurred?
Verse 7.
8.
What command did the angel give ? Verse 8.
9.
Where did Peter go ? Did he realize that he was
actually released from the chains? Verse 9.
10.
How did they pass the great iron gate of the
prison ? Verse 10. Note 3.
11.
What did Peter say when he came to himself ?
Verse 11.
12.
Where did he go? What were they doing at this
place ? Verse 12.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
23
13.
Who came to the door in answer to his knocking?
What did Rhoda do Verses 13, 14.
14.
How did the praying ones receive the good news?
What did they afterward conclude? Verse 15.
15.
When they finally opened the door, what did
Peter say to them? To whom were they to relate the
news of the wonderful deliverance? What precaution
did Peter take for his own safety? Verses 16, 17.
16.
What occurred the next day? What command did
Herod give ? Where did Peter go? Verses 18, 19.
17.
What trouble did Herod have with the people of
Tyre and Sidon, and how was peace secured? Verse 20.
18.
What attempt was made to honor Herod? Verses
21, 22.
19.
How was the judgment of God visited upon
Herod? Verse 23. Note 4.
20.
Notwithstanding all the devices of the enemy,
what prosperity attended the work of the Lord'?
Verse 24.
21.
Who returned from Jerusalem with Barnabas and
Saul? Verse 25.
Notes
1.
''Herod the king." Herod Agrippa I, grandson of Herod
the Great, now ruled all Palestine under the Romans. Herod the
Great died soon after the birth of Jesus. Herod Antipas, the
son to whom Galilee and Perea were given, was the Herod who
put John the Baptist to death.
2.
"Four quaternions of soldiers" Four sets of men, one
for each watch, and four men in each set, two of whom were
chained to Peter in the cell, and two were on. guard outside.
The Greek word "Passover" is wrongly rendered
Easter
in
the King James Version. The word "Easter" is of Saxon origin.
"Herod purposed putting Peter to death, but as a strict Jew
24
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
he would not pollute the festival by shedding blood, and there-
fore had Peter imprisoned till after the Passover. There were
four modes of execution lawful among the Jews, stoning, decapi-
tation, burning, and strangling."—
Tarbell.
3.
The Lord does not do for us what we can do for ourselves.
The angel freed Peter from the chains which bound him to the
soldiers, but he did not put the garments on him. Peter was
commanded to gird himself, bind on his own sandals, and cast
his garment about him. When they came to the great iron gate
that Peter was powerless to open, the gate opened by divine power.
The angel stayed with Peter until they had gone through "one
street" and were a safe distance from the prison guards, and
when the danger was passed left Peter to go the rest of the way
himself. God expects us to use the power we have; and when we
have reached the limit of our strength He will supply divine
strength.
Van Lennep, in ''Bible Lands," thus describes an Oriental
city gate to which the prison gate may have been similar: "The
gates are large, massive, and two-leaved, built of heavy timber,
plated with iron. A strong iron bar, hooked at one end, hangs
from a heavy ring of the same metal, made fast in a strong post,
built into the wall behind each fold of the gate. When the gate
is closed, the hooks are set into other iron rings, on the back of
its folds, enabling the gate to resist a very heavy pressure from
without. The lock is massive and of wrought iron, and the long-
handled, ponderous key is carried by the keeper of the gate in
his belt, or hung from a nail in.his little room close by."
God has opened many doors as firmly fastened as the iron gate
which was opened before Peter. It used to be said that the
zenanas — the women's quarters — in India could never be en-
tered. "God swung the doors ajar in answer to fervent and
faithful prayer and effort." Africa, the "Dark Continent," is
now called "the Continent of Opportunity." We are not crying
now so much for open doors, as for open hearts to take advantage
of opened doors which none can shut.
4.
"Herod knew that he deserved none of this praise and
homage; yet he did not rebuke the idolatry of the people, but
accepted it as his due. The glow of gratified pride was on his
countenance as he heard the shout ascend: It is the voice of a
god, and not of man! The same voices which now glorified a vile
sinner, had, but
a
few years before, raised the frenzied cry of,
Away with Jesus! Crucify Him, crucify Him! Herod received
this flattery and homage with great pleasure, and his heart bounded
with triumph; but suddenly a swift and terrible change came over
him. His countenance became pallid as death, and distorted with
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
25
agony; great drops of sweat started from his pores. He stood a
moment as if transfixed with pain and terror, then, turning his
blanched and livid face to his horror-stricken friends
'
he cried
in hollow, despairing tones, He whom you have exalted as a god
is struck with death!
He was borne in a state of the most excruciating anguish
from the scene of wicked revelry, the mirth, and pomp, and display
of which he now loathed in his soul. A •moment before, he had
been the proud recipient of the praise and worship of that vast
throng — now he felt himself in the hands of a Ruler mightier
than himself. Remorse seized him; he remembered his cruel com-
mand to slay the innocent James; he remembered his relentless
persecution of the followers of Christ, and his design to put to
death the apostle Peter, whom God had delivered out of his hand;
he remembered how, in his mortification and disappointed rage, he
had wreaked his unreasoning revenge upon the keepers of the
prisoner, and executed them without mercy. He felt that God,
who had rescued the apostle from death, was now dealing with
him, the relentless persecutor. He found no relief from pain of
body or anguish of mind, and he expected none. Herod was ac-
quainted with the law of God, which says, `Thou shalt have no
other gods before Me,' and he knew that in accepting the wor-
ship of the people he had filled up the measure of his iniquity, and
had brought upon him the just wrath of God.
"The same angel who had left the royal courts of heaven
to rescue Peter from the power of his persecutor, had been the
messenger of wrath and judgment to Herod. The angel smote
Peter to arouse him from slumber; but it was with a different
stroke that he smote the wicked king, bringing mortal disease
upon him. God poured contempt upon Herod's pride, and his
person, which he had exhibited decked in shining apparel before
the admiring gaze of the people, was eaten by worms, and putri-
fied while yet alive. Herod died in great agony of mind .and
body, under the retributive justice of God.
"This demonstration of divine juclgment had a mighty in-
fluence upon the people. While the apostle of Christ had been
miraculously delivered from prison and death, his persecutor
had been stricken down by the curse of God. The news was borne
to all lands, and was the means of bringing many to believe on
Christ."—"Spirit
of Prophecy," volume 3, pages 343-345.
26
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
LESSON IX.— Paul's First Missionary Journey Com-
menced; Ordination of Paul and Barnabas;
Elymas the Sorcerer
MAY 2.7, 1911
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
Acts 13: 1-12.
PLACES: Antioch, Cyrene, Seleucia, Cyprus, Salamis, Paphos.
PERSONS: Saul, Barnabas, Simeon, Lucius, Manaen, Sergius
Paulus, Elymas.
Questions
1.
Name the noted prophets and teachers in the An-
tioch church. Acts 13: 1. See Note 1 for the geography
of the lesson.
2.
What special instruction was given them by the
Spirit of God ? Verse 2.
3.
For what special line of work had they been
called ? Acts 9: 15; 22 : 21.
4.
What three things were done by those who fol-
lowed the instruction. to ordain Barnabas and Saul ?
Acts 13: 3.
5.
What was the significance of the laying on of
hands? Deut. 34: 9; 1 Tim. 4 : 14. Note 2.
6.
Who sent Barnabas and Saul forth to labor, and
where did they first go ? Acts 13: 4.
7.
Where did they begin preaching? Who accom-
panied them? Verse 5.
8.
What town was next visited? Whom did they
find in this place? Verse 6. Note 3.
9.
With whom was the sorcerer connected? What is
said of the deputy? What did he desire? Verse 7.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
27
10.
When Elymas found the deputy wished to hear
the word of God, what did he seek to do ? Verse 8.
11.
How did this affect Saul ? What name is here-
after given to Saul ? -Verse 9. Note 4.
12.
How did Paul address the sorcerer? Verse 10.
13.
What judgment did he say would come upon the
sorcerer ? How were his words fulfilled ? Verse 11.
14.
What effect did this miracle have upon the deputy?
Verse 12.
15.
Who is the father of sorcerers ? Verse 10.
16.
What will be the final portion of all sorcerers
Rev. 21 : 8.
17.
What is said of kindred opposition to the gospel
in the last days? 2 Tim. 3: 1, 8.
Notes
1.
"Antioch, the capital of Syria, was very favorably situated
for the new outward movement of Christianity. Moreover,
Barna-
bas was a native of Cyprus, the nearest island, and Saul was a
native of Cilicia, the neighboring province. Seleucia was about
sixteen miles down the river Orontes. Cyprus, about eighty miles
southwest of Seleucia, was a triangular island about one hundred
fifty miles long and fifty or sixty miles wide. Salamis was the
chief city on the eastern coast, and Paphos the capital city, sit-
uated on the western coast."--
Sunday School Times.
2.
"We have, in the history of these two apostles, only a
simple record of the laying on of hands, and its bearing upon
their work. Both Paul and Barnabas had already received their
commission from God Himself; and the ceremony of the laying on
of hands added no new grace or virtual qualification. It was
merely setting the seal of the church upon the work of God —
an acknowledged form of designation to an appointed office."—
"Spirit of Prophecy," volume 3, page 349.
3.
"Bar-Jesus, "— that is, "Son of Joshua." "Elymas
[verse 8] is from the Arabic, meaning sorcerer or magician; hence
the probability that he was an Arabian Jew."—
Riddle.
4.
The leading explanation of the change from "Saul" to
"Paul," is that he always had both names, as such a custom was
28
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
common especially among Hellenistic Jews, and that his Gentile
(or Roman) name is used from this point, because his mission
to the Gentiles becomes prominent.
LESSON X.— The Gospel Preached at Antioch, in
Pisidia
JUNE 3, 1911
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
Acts 13: 13-33.
PLACES: Paphos, Perga, a synagogue in Antioch in Pisidia.
PERSONS: Paul and his company, John (Mark), rulers of the
synagogue, the people.
Questions
1.
After leaving Paphos, where did Paul and his
workers go? Who left their party at this place? Acts
13 : 13. Note 1.
2.
After leaving Perga where did they go ? Where
did they go on the Sabbath? Verse 14.
3.
After the customary reading of the law, what
invitation was given Paul and his companions? Verse
15. Note 2.
4.
Who accepted the invitation to speak ? With what
words did he open his discourse? Verse 16.
5.
Of what historical fact did he first remind them?
Verse 17. Note 3.
6.
For how many years did God feed the children of
Israel in the wilderness? Verse 18 (margin)..
7.
How many nations were destroyed in the land of
Canaan ? Who divided the land by lot ? Verse 19.
8.
How long was Israel ruled by judges Verse 20.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
29
9.
Who was their first king? How long did he
reign? Verse 21.
10.
What was said of David? Verse 22.
11.
While speaking of David whom did he introduce ?
Verse 23.
12.
How did John the Baptist speak of Christ? Verses
24, 25.
13.
To whom was the word of this salvation sent?
Verse 26.
14.
Why did the rulers in Jerusalem condemn Christ ?
What were they fulfilling in condemning Him? Verse 27.
15.
How did they accomplish Christ's death? Verse 28.
16.
By their wicked course what were the Jews do-
ing ? After all was fulfilled what did the disciples do
for Christ ? Verse 29.
17.
What did Paul say of HiS resurrection ? Verse 30.
18.
Who had seen Jesus after His resurrection ?
Verse 31.
19.
What did Paul declare? How and in what Man-
ner had God fulfilled the promise made to their.
fathers?
Verses 32, 33.
Notes
1. Perga,
the capital of Pamphylia, was on the river Cestrus,
then navigable, about seven miles from the Mediterranean. It
was northwest of Paphos. Celebrated for its worship of Diana.
Antioch of Pisidia,
a city on the central table-land of Asia
Minor. The journey from Perga to Antioch was a perilous one.
Some commentators think reference is made to it in 2 Cor. 11:26.
It will be remembered that the Antioch from which the journey
was begun was in Syria.
"Paul and his company now continued their journey, going
into Perga, in Pamphylia. Their way was toilsome, they en-
countered hardships and privations, and were beset by dangers
30
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
on every side, which intimidated Mark, who was unused to hard-
ships. As still greater difficulties were apprehended, he became dis-
heartened, and refused to go farther, just at the time when his
services were most needed. He accordingly returned to Jerusalem,
and to the peace and comfort of his home. Mark did not apos-
tatize from the faith of Christianity; but, like many young min-
isters, he shrank from hardships, and preferred the comfort and
safety of home to the travels, labors, and dangers of the mis-
sionary field. This desertion caused Paul to judge him unfa—nr-
ably and severely for a long time. He distrusted his steadiness
of character, and his devotion to the cause of Christ."—"Spirit
of Prophecy," volume 3, page 852.
2.
Synagogues were established in every foreign city where
Jews were numerous. "After prayers, which were of a pre-
scribed form, though extempore prayers were often added, a
lesson from the law was followed by another from the prophets,
the reader being usually designated by the ruler of the synagogue.
Then came an address or sermon. Here there was large liberty,
though the ruler (or rulers) of the synagogue remained in con-
trol. Any well-known rabbi, and even strangers who had some
repute as teachers, might be invited to speak (verse 15). This
liberty was constantly made available by the Christian mission-
aries."—
Riddle, in "Sunday School Times."
"The synagogue was always a plain, rectangular building
erected on the highest spot in the neighborhood, or having a tall
pole on the roof to make it conspicuous. Unlike the scribes who
desired to have the chief seat' (Mark 12:38, 39), Paul and
Barnabas entered the synagogue and sat 'down with the congrega-
tion. The chief seats were around the ark or chest at one end
of the building, containing the sacred rolls. Before the ark
hung a veil and lamps. In front was a platform with its reading
desk or pulpit. In the congregation the men were separated from
the women. During the prayers Paul and Barnabas stood with
the rest with their faces toward Jerusalem."—
Tarbell.
3.
" The Jews were never tired of hearing their own history.
Whenever a speaker arose in Jewish society determined to carry
a specific point, he came with all the background of Jewish his-
tory, and under the influence of recollections heroic and thrilling,
he endeavored to carry the immediate point of the occasion.
One might have expected that the Jews would have become weary
of hearing their history time after time, but historians record
it to their credit that they were always ready to hear the living
story again."—
Joseph Parker.
SABi3ATEI-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
31
LESSON XI.—The Gospel Rejected by the Jews in
Pisidia
JUNE 10, 1911
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Acts 13: 34-52.
PLACES: Antioch in Pisidia; Iconiurn.
PERSONS: Paul and Barnabas, Jews and Gentiles.
Questions
1.
What quotation from Isaiah did Paul use to prove
the resurrection of Christ Acts 13 : 34.
2.
What quotation from the Psalms did he use to
prove the same thing ? Verse 35.
3.
What fact did Paul state in regard to David, to
prove that David was not speaking of himself in the quo-
tation given from the Psalms? Verse 36.
4.
What was said of Christ? Verse 37.
5.
How do we receive forgiveness of sin ? Verse 38.
6.
Who are justified? Verse 39.
7.
Of what did Paul warn his hearers? Verses 40, 41.
8.
What request was made by the Gentiles? Verse
42. Note 1.
9.
Who spoke with Paul at the close of the meeting?
Verse 43.
10.
How many assembled the next Sabbath to hear
Paul preach ? Verse 44. Note 2.
11.
How did the Jews feel in regard to the meeting ?
What did they do? Verse 45.
12.
How did Paul and Barnabas meet the anger of
the Jews? What did they say to them? Verse 46.
13.
What command did Paul say the Lord had given
him? Verse 47,
32
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
14.
How did the Gentiles receive this testimony ? Who
believed ? Verse 48. Note 3.
15.
How widely was the word of God published ?
Verse 49.
16.
Whom did the Jews stir up against Paul and
Barnabas ? What was the result ? Verse 50.
17.
What did Paul and Barnabas do as they went
from Antioch in Pisidia 1 Verse 51.
18.
Who had commanded them to do this? Luke 9: 5.
19.
Notwithstanding the fact that they were expelled
from the city, how did the disciples feel? Acts 13 : 52.
Notes
1. "When he [Paul] had finished, and the Jews had left the
synagogue, the Gentiles still lingered, and entreated that the same
words might be spoken unto them the next Sabbath day. . . .
When the Jewish priests and rulers saw the multitudes that had
assembled to hear the new doctrine, they were moved by envy
and jealousy, and contradicted the words of the apostles with
blasphemy. Their old bigotry and prejudice were also aroused,
when they perceived great numbers of Gentiles mingling with the
Jews in the congregation. They could not endure that the Gentiles
should enjoy religious privileges on au equality with themselves,
but clung tenaciously to the idea that the blessing of God was
reserved exclusively for them. This had ever been the great sin
.of the Jews, which Christ, on several occasions, had rebuked. . . .
The Gentiles, on the other hand, rejoiced exceedingly that Christ
recognized them as the children of God, and with grateful hearts
they listened to the word preached. The apostles now clearly dis-
cerned their duty, and the work which .God would have them
do. They turned without hesitation to the Gentiles, preaching
Christ to them,
and leaving the Jews to their bigotry, blindness of
mind, and hardness of heart. The mind of Paul had been well
prepared to make this decision, by the circumstances attending his
conversion, his vision in the temple at Jerusalem, his appointment
by God to preach to the Gentiles, and the success which had al-
ready crowned his efforts among them. . . . This gathering in
of the Gentiles to the church of
had been traced by the pen
of inspiration, but had been but faintly understood. Hosea had
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
33
said; 'Yet the number of the children of Israel shall be as the
sand of the sea, which can not be measured nor numbered; and
it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto
them, Ye are not My people, there it shall be said unto them,
Ye are the sons of the living God.' And again,
will sow her
unto Me in the earth; and I will have mercy upon her that had
not obtained mercy; and I will say to them which were not My
people, Thou art My people; and they shall say, Thou art my
God.' "—"
Sketches from the Life of Paul," pages 48-51. )
2.
It is worthy of notice that the. Sabbath is mentioned four
times in this chapter. There can be no question but that the
meeting described in this lesson was held on the seventh day,4
as that was the day upon which the Jews met for religious wor-
ship. Luke, writing by inspiration for Christians in this dis-
pensation, calls it the Sabbath. It must therefore be the Sabbath
still. No Bible writer of the New Testament calls it the Jewish
Sabbath, or calls any other day the Sabbath or the Lord's day.
Paul calls the day on which the Jews met in the synagogue the
Sabbath (verse 27), and the Gentiles also called the same day of
the week the Sabbath (verse 42). James called it the Sabbath.
See Acts 15:21. The evidence is conclusive that the seventh-day
Sabbath of the Old Testament is as well the Sabbath of the New
Testament.
3.
"As many as were ordained to eternal life." Compare
verse 46 and John 1: 11, 12. "The best rendering would be
`were disposed to eternal life,' which preserves the exact shade
of the verb."—
Bartlett.
LESSON XII.— Support of the Gospel Work
JUNE 17, 1911
NOTE.- Along with the study of the beginnings of missionary
operations in the early church, it is appropriate that we review,
for one lesson, the Lord's plan for the support of His work on
earth. The early church was familiar with the system of tithes
and offerings for the maintenance of the temple and its services.
"Do ye not know," said Paul, "that they which minister about
holy things live of the things of the temple'? and they which wait
at the altar are partakers with the altar'? Even so hath the Lord
ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the
gospel." 1 Cor. 9: 13, 14.
34
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
Questions
DURING THE MELCHISEDEC PRIESTHOOD
1.
What event calls forth the first mention in the
Scriptures of the payment of tithe? Gen. 14 : 17-20.
2.
Prior to this what had it pleased God to make of
Abraham? Gen. 12 : 1-3, 7. Note 1.
3.
When the Father described the priesthood of
Christ, the promised Seed, after what order was it
called? Heb. 7: 17-20.
4.
If the Melchisedec priesthood received tithe, as
in the case of Abraham returning with the spoil after
rescuing Lot, and Christ is made priest after this order,
what may we conclude regarding the obligation to pay
tithe during Christ's priesthood?
DURING THE LEVITICAL PRIESTHOOD
5.
What shows that Jacob, Abraham's grandson, un-
derstood perfectly his obligation to God regarding the
payment of tithe? Gen. 28 : 20-22. Note 2.
6.
About twenty years later, when he came back to
his old home in safety, what substantial evidence could
Jacob (now Israel) present of the Lord's prospering
care over him? Gen. 32 : 13-18; 33: 8-11. (See margin,
verse 11.)
7.
What commandment did God give to the children
of Israel concerning the tithe? Lev. 27 : 30-34.
8.
On one occasion what were the Levites compelled
to do, when through selfishness the other tribes of Israel
withheld the tithe? Neh. 13: 10.
9, Uow was this condition corrected,? Verses 11
7
12.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
35
10.
For what purpose were these things written? 1
Cor. 10: 11, 12.
11.
What blessing was withheld anciently because of
Israel's selfishness? Haggai 1: 7-11.
12.
When the people began to build the temple in
obedience to God's command, what definite results fol-
lowed? Haggai 2: 18, 19.
13.
In the payment of tithes, under both the Mel-
chisedec and Levitical orders. of priesthood, what lesson
is taught? Note 3.
14.
As He taught upon one occasion, what statement
did Jesus make regarding faithful tithe-paying? Luke
11 : 42.
15.
What must prompt the payment of tithe that this
service may be acceptable in the sight of God? Note 4.
16.
Why does the Lord ask that
all
the tithe be
brought in? To him who is faithful in these things,
what precious promise is made ? Mal. 3: 10.. Note 5.
SCRIPTURES FOR ADDITIONAL STUDY
Luke 12: 29-36; Acts 4: 33-37; 1 Cor. 16: 2; Ps.
145 : 15-17 (see margin,,Verse 17) ; 2 Cor. 9: 11, 12.
Notes .
1.
Abraham paid tithe to Melchisedec after God had made
him the father of them that believe. The lesson is obvious that
those who by faith follow in the footsteps of Abraham, and by
faith accept the promised Seed as the Son of God, in whom is
life, acknowledge also the Lord's ownership of the tithe.
2.
" 'Of all that Thou shalt give me,' said Jacob, 'I will
surely give the tenth unto Thee.' Shall we who enjoy the full
light and privileges of the gospel, be content to give less to
God than was given by those who lived in the former, less favored
dispensation'? Nay, as the blessings we enjoy are greater, are
not our obligations correspondingly increased? But how small
36
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
the estimate; how vain the endeavor to measure with mathematical
rules, time, money, and love, against a love so immeasurable and
a gift of such inconceivable worth. Tithes for Christ! 0, meager
pittance, shameful recompense for that which cost so much!
From the cross of Calvary, Christ calls for an unreserved conse-
cration. All that we have, all that we are, shOuld be devoted to
God."—"Patriarchs and Prophets," page 188.
3.
The priesthood after the order of MelLisedec, king of
Salem, is that royal order after which Christ is now our great
High Priest. -Under this order tithe-paying is a part of the serv-
ice of the worshiper. So, too, it was under the Levitical order.
Thus, from the call of Abraham, which was the preaching of the
gospel to him as father of the faithful, on to the end we find
tithe-paying a part of the Scripture record. By the Scriptures
studied, it is shown that all along the obligation, or rather the
privilege, of returning a tenth to the Lord, is clearly made known.
Besides this, free-will offerings were to be given. It is made very
evident that the acceptance by any person of the privileges of the
gospel, lays him under certain obligations, among which is that
of paying a tithe of all his increase into the treasury for the
support of God's work. in the earth. This portion is reserved by
God; it "is the Lord's," ever consecrated "holy unto the Lord."
4.
It should ever be borne in mind that compliance with any of
these sacred duties, such as tithe-paying, or baptism, or even
Sabbath-keeping, in itself can not commend us to God. These
things are the fruits of living faith. And the same faith will
bring forth the fruits of mercy, judgment, and love for God and
man. The rebuke of Christ addressed to the Pharisees applies to
any to-day who, like them, pass over the weightier principles of
the law, even though they may be very scrupulous in outward form.
",These ought ye to have done, and riot to leave the other undone."
5.
" The magnitude of our work calls for willing liberality
on the part of the people of God. In Africa, in China, in India,
there are thousands, yes, millions, who have not heard the message
of the truth for this time. They must be warned. The islands
of the sea are waiting for a knowledge of God. . . . The Lord
has made us His stewards. He has placed His means in our hands
for faithful distribution. He asks us to render to Him His own.
He has reserved the tithe as His sacred portion, to be used in send-
ing the gospel to all parts of the world. My brethren and sisters,
confess and forsake your selfishness, and bring to the Lord your
gifts and offerings. Bring Him also the tithe that you have with-
held. Come confessing your neglect. Prove the Lord, as He has
invited you to
do."—"Testimonies for the Church," volume 9,
pages 51, 52.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON" QUARTERLY
37
LESSON XIII.— Review
JUNE 24, 1911
LESSON SCRIPTURE:
Acts 8: 26 to 13: 52.
Chief Persons
1.
Philip and the Eunuch.
II.
Saul and Ananias.
III.
Saul and Barnabas,
Peter, ZEneas, and Dorcas.
IV.
Cornelius and Peter.
V.
Peter and Cornelius.
VI.
Peter and brethren at
Jerusalem.
VII.
Barnabas and Saul.
VIII.
Herod, „Tames, Peter.
TX. Barnabas, Saul, Sergius
Paulus.
X.
Panl and Jews at An-
tioch.
XI.
Paul and Barnabas,
Jews and Gentiles at An-
tioch.
.XII. Melchisedec priesthood,
Levitical priesthood.
Chief Facts
An Ethiopian converted.
Saul converted.
Saul delivered from enemies.
Two great miracles wrought.
Truth revealed in a vision.
Gospel preached to Gentiles.
The Holy Spirit given to Gen-
tiles.
Many converted at Antioch.
Release from prison.
Herod 's death.
An ordination service.
Elymas rebuked.
A notable sermon.
Jews reject gospel.
Gentiles rejoice in it.
History. of tithing.
Questions •
1.
Relate Philip's experience with the eunuch. Acts
8 : 26-40.
2.
Give au .account of Saul's experience on his way
to Damascus. Who • visited Saul, and what was the
result ? Acts 9 : 1-18.
•
3. What experience did Saul have preaching the gos-
pel in Damascus ? Verses 20-25.
4.
How was be received by the disciples at Jerusa-
lem? Verses 26, 27. -
5.
In what way was 1Eneas made whole
,
! Relate the
details of the miracle which raised Dorcas from the dead.
Verses 32-42.
38
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
6.
Review the experience of Cornelius. Acts 10: 1-8.
7.
Relate Peter's vision. What did the vision mean ?
Verses 9-16, 28.
8.
Describe the meeting held in the home of Corne-
lius. Verses 24-48.
9.
How did Peter meet the prejudice of the Jewish
Christians? Acts 11: 1-18.
10.
Give an account of the interest among the Gen-
tiles at Antioch. Verses 19-24.
11.
How did Herod seek to stop the work of the apos-
tles ? Acts 12; 1-6.
12.
How was Peter delivered from prison ? Verses
7-17.
13.
What judgment fell upon Herod ? Verses 20-23.
14.
Describe the ordination of Saul and Barnabas.
Acts 13: 1-4.
15.
Relate Saul's Oxperience with the sorcerer at
Paphos. Verses 5-12.
16.
Give a brief outline of Paul's sermon in the syna-
gogue at Antioch. Verses 14-41.
17.
What followed as the result of the service with
the Gentiles the second Sabbath at Antioch ? Verses
42-51.
18.
What events prove that the payment of the tithe
was obligatory during the Melchisedec priesthood ? Gen.
14: 17-20; 12: 1-3, 7; Heb. 7: 17-20.
•
19.
How is its binding obligation shown during the
Levitical priesthood? Lev. 27 : 30-34.
-
20. How is our duty in this regard emphasized? Luke
11 : 42; Mal. 3:10.
For Children and Young People
UNCLE BEN'S COBBLESTONES
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NEW TESTAMENT PRIMER
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OUR LITTLE FOLKS' BIBLE NATURE
A series of complete lessons on nature, taking up the sub-
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A book for children; large type. The interesting story of
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BIBLES
The publishers of this pamphlet carry a line of Oxford Bibles,
a description of which will be gladly sent on request.
Pacific Press Publishing Association
Mountain View, California
61 N. Park Street
1109 East 12th Street
Portland, Oregon
Kansas City, Missouri
For Children and Young People
GOSPEL PRIMER
This book begins with an attractive alphabet, each letter of
which is connected with some Bible scene. Following that
the word method of reading is introduced, together with il-
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MAKING HOME HAPPY
A bright, cheery story in which good, wholesome lessons are
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By the author of "Making Home Peaceful." A series of
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Pacific Press Publishing Association
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1109 East 12th Street
Portland, Oregon
Kansas City, Missouri
